A declarative sentence can be changed into an interrogative sentence by adding a question intonation, or in other words, by adding a rising intonation, to the end of the statement. Sentences of this kind show the doubt or surprise of the speaker.

Chinese Culture

Why do Chinese people like number “6” and “8”?

When choosing telephone numbers, Chinese people prefer numbers that include eight or six. Why?

It is because they think eight and six are lucky numbers. Eight is pronounced as “bā” in Chinese, which is a homonym for “发 (fā).” “发” can be seen to represent “发财 (fācái), to make a fortune.” Six is pronounced as “liù” in Chinese, which is a homonym for “禄 (lù).” “禄” means “good fortune.” There is a saying in China, “六六大顺 (liùliù dàshùn),” which means “Everything is going very well.” As such, Chinese people think these numbers are lucky and desire to have a phone number that contains the number six or eight.

Making phone calls is an important activity in our life and work. This Chinese language lesson will introduce some expressions that Chinese people frequently use in telephone conversations, and teach you how to express an inquiry through change of tones in sentences. In addition, you'll learn about the “lucky numbers” when Chinese choose their telephone numbers.

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